Context: ISRO’s second short hot test of semi-cryogenic engine a success

 

Source: The Hindu

At its facility in the ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, the Indian Space Research Organization successfully completed a brief hot test of the semi-cryogenic engine.

Following the first successful hot test on March 28, which marked a significant advancement in the semi-cryogenic engine test program, this marks the second milestone.

This test validated the engine start-up sequence by putting the Engine Power Head Test Article—which includes all engine systems except the thrust chamber—through a 3.5-second hot test. The engine demonstrated steady and controlled operation throughout the test, effectively starting and running up to 60% of its rated power output.

The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite launch campaign has already begun in Sriharikota on the GSLV-F16. The ISRO’s GSLV launch vehicle’s second stage was flagged off.

Model Question:

Discuss the significance of ISRO’s development of a semi-cryogenic engine. How does it enhance India’s space capabilities? Also, mention the missions that would benefit from this technology.

Model Answer:

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is developing a semi-cryogenic engine under its Semi-Cryogenic Engine Development Programme (SCEDP). Unlike fully cryogenic engines that use both liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen, a semi-cryogenic engine uses liquid oxygen (LOX) as oxidizer and a refined form of kerosene (RP-1 or ISROSENE) as fuel.

This technology is significant for several reasons:

1. Cost-efficiency: Kerosene is cheaper and easier to handle than liquid hydrogen, reducing mission costs substantially.
2. Higher Thrust: Semi-cryogenic engines can produce greater thrust than traditional cryogenic engines, enabling heavier payloads to be launched into orbit.
3. Reusable Systems: These engines are better suited for reusable launch vehicles due to their operational simplicity and robustness.
4. Indigenous Capability: Mastery over semi-cryogenic technology reduces India’s dependence on foreign propulsion technologies and strengthens self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
5. Boost to Heavy Lift Capability:It would help ISRO develop future vehicles capable of launching satellites weighing over 10 tonnes into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), aiding in ambitious projects like space stations and deep-space missions.

Missions that would benefit:

1. NGLV (Next Generation Launch Vehicle): Planned to replace PSLV, GSLV Mk II, and GSLV Mk III, incorporating semi-cryogenic stages.
2. Gaganyaan (Human Spaceflight Programme) (future upgrades): To support heavier modules and resupply missions.
3. Indian Space Station Project: For launching modules and supplies.
4. Heavy payload satellite launches for global commercial markets under NSIL and IN-SPACe initiatives.

The development of a semi-cryogenic engine represents a major leap for India’s space ambitions, promising cost-effective, heavier, and reusable launches that could transform ISRO’s operational capabilities.